Between Extinction and Reconversion: Why is Radio Listening Dwindling?

Abstract

Nowadays, only 3.5 out of 10 Mexicans listen to the radio. In 2005 almost 90% of homes in Mexico had at least one radio receiver. Fifteen years later only 51% of households had one. This drop in audiences is mainly the result of the expansion of digital platforms and is not directly linked to the socioeconomic situation of radio listeners. This article documents this drastic decrease in audiences and, based on data from institutions such as INEGI, it shows the interest in consuming radio in each state of the country. It outlines some explanations to understand this change in radio reception. In conclusion, we suggest that the options for the consumption of audiovisual content have multiplied, new audiences are looking for more flexible formats, and many people design their own media consumption menu, among other circumstances. Lastly, in Mexico, the excessive commercialization of radio has limited the diversity and quality of its content.